The football world is turning its attention to the Soweto Derby this weekend as Orlando Pirates prepare to face arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs in one of South African football’s biggest fixtures.
Beyond the fierce rivalry, passionate supporters and bragging rights, the derby has produced countless unforgettable moments and legendary goalscorers who have left their mark on the history of the game.
While modern stars continue to create their own legacies, some former greats remain in a league of their own when it comes to finding the net in this iconic encounter.
Leading the list is the legendary Patrick “Ace” Ntsoelengoe, whose remarkable record of 19 Soweto Derby goals continues to set the benchmark for future generations.
Top 10 Soweto Derby Goalscorers of All Time
1. Patrick “Ace” Ntsoelengoe – Kaizer Chiefs (19 goals)
Widely regarded as one of South Africa’s greatest footballers, Ntsoelengoe sits at the summit of the Soweto Derby goalscoring rankings. His extraordinary tally of 19 goals underlines his influence and enduring legacy in this historic rivalry.
2. Marks Maponyane – Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates (11 goals)
Nicknamed “Go Man Go”, Maponyane is a rare figure to have represented both Soweto giants. His pace, movement and finishing ability made him a dangerous attacking presence, regardless of which side he represented.
3. Nelson “Teenage” Dladla – Kaizer Chiefs (11 goals)
Dladla earned admiration for his pace, skill and attacking flair. His ability to trouble opposition defenders made him one of the most memorable Chiefs players to feature in the derby.
4. Abednego “Shaka” Ngcobo – Kaizer Chiefs (11 goals)
Ngcobo combined physical strength with technical ability, establishing himself as a formidable attacking player during the 1970s and 1980s. His goalscoring exploits secured his place among the derby’s most celebrated names.
5. Jomo Sono – Orlando Pirates (9 goals)
Known as the “Black Prince”, Sono remains one of Orlando Pirates’ most iconic figures. His creativity, vision and attacking brilliance made him a key player in the Buccaneers’ history, including their battles against Kaizer Chiefs.
6. Kaizer Motaung – Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates (8 goals)
Before becoming the founder of Kaizer Chiefs, Motaung made his mark as a player. His inclusion on the list highlights his contribution to the early history of the rivalry and his place in South African football.
7. Jerry Sikhosana – Orlando Pirates (6 goals)
Pirates supporters will always remember Sikhosana for his clinical finishing and his famous hat-trick in the 1996 Soweto Derby. His performances against Amakhosi helped cement his status as one of the Buccaneers’ most memorable forwards.
8. Fani Madida – Kaizer Chiefs (6 goals)
Madida was a prolific striker whose goalscoring instincts made him a significant threat in derby encounters. His reported run of scoring in four consecutive derbies remains a notable achievement from the early 1990s.
9. Thembinkosi Lorch – Orlando Pirates (5 goals)
Lorch brought flair, creativity and decisive finishing to the modern-era Soweto Derby. His ability to produce important moments against Kaizer Chiefs made him a standout performer during his time with Orlando Pirates.
10. Doctor Khumalo – Kaizer Chiefs (5 goals)
A gifted midfielder celebrated for his vision, technique and passing ability, Khumalo was also capable of finding the net in high-pressure matches. His inclusion reflects his enduring importance to Kaizer Chiefs and the derby’s history.
Can Today’s Stars Challenge the Legends?
As Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs prepare for another showdown, the spotlight will once again fall on the players hoping to become the next Soweto Derby heroes.
Every goal carries enormous significance in a fixture where history, pride and passion meet. A single moment can turn a player into a club legend and live in supporters’ memories for decades.
For now, Ntsoelengoe’s reported record of 19 goals remains the benchmark highlighted in this all-time list.
Who is your favourite Soweto Derby goalscorer of all time? Is it Ace Ntsoelengoe, Jomo Sono, Jerry Sikhosana, Doctor Khumalo or another legend?
Share your choice and join the debate ahead of this weekend’s blockbuster clash between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs.
